February of this year saw Belfast-based FBO Jet Assist Business Jet Centre acquire its first 11,000 gallon (41,000 litre) GA dedicated fuel bowser, which joins its existing portfolio of owned and operated ground service equipment. With its under and over wing fuelling capabilities, the dedicated bowser allows Jet Assist to guarantee a smooth and efficient fuel uplift and removes business aviation operators' reliance on the airport's commercial airline service.

Chairman Stanley Edgar says: “The addition of our own fuel bowser allows us to control more of the services our customers need on the ground, which in turn ensures that we can support our customers in completing their flights efficiently and on time.”

With easy access onto the North Atlantic Tracks, 24/7 opening hours as standard and competitively priced fuel, handling and airport fees, Belfast International offers a time and cost effective trans-Atlantic tech stop option. In addition, Jet Assist boasts Ireland’s only in-FBO security suite which makes any clearance requirements painless and time efficient.

The company has experienced continued growth following its purchase by Northern Irish entrepreneur Edgar in June 2018. A recently completed refurbishment of its VIP facilities includes a makeover of its passenger lounge as well as significant upgrades to the crew lounge and rest areas with the addition of sleep pods and state of the art computer equipment. Now the company has appointed Eddie Allison as commercial director and Craig Middleton and Steve Woods as senior consultants as hands-on advisors, and between them they bring vast FBO, fuel and industry experience. Edgar adds: “I am delighted with the progress we have made during my short time with Jet Assist, from enhancing our crew and passenger facilities and in-house security screening suite to welcoming Eddie, Craig and Steve and their extensive industry experience as they support our existing operations team.

Steve Woods of Aero Dynamic Consulting adds: “We look forward to supporting Jet Assist during these exciting times. Stanley has a clear vision of the service he wants to deliver and myself, Craig and Eddie are committed to making this a reality.”

Edgar continues: “Our focus is to deliver the highest standards of service and facilities to our customers whether they are spending time visiting Belfast itself, the beautiful Northern Irish countryside or using Belfast International as the most convenient trans-Atlantic tech stop option. Our team at Jet Assist is committed to delivering industry leading service and value to our customers 24/7/365.”

After a near 70-year absence Northern Ireland is ready to once again host the British Open at Royal Portrush Golf Club, County Antrim in July. The past few months have seen Jet Assist ramp up its preparations ahead of the event to ensure it is ready to support with pre-trip planning as well as actual operations.

The company has also put in place a strategic partnership with UK-based operator SaxonAir, a member of the Klyne Aviation Group, to provide helicopter transfers to and from the venue, and has pre-booked hotel rooms in Belfast city centre for air crews.